Blood in spit after vomiting: what to know

Retching can irritate the lining of the mouth, throat, or food pipe and leave small streaks of blood. Blood may also have been swallowed from a nosebleed or mouth injury. The appearance matters: bright red blood can be fresh, while dark material or vomit that resembles coffee grounds may indicate older blood. Vomiting linked with gastroenteritis, food poisoning, migraine, or another illness can cause dehydration and repeated retching. Gallstones or pancreatitis may cause significant upper-abdominal pain and vomiting. Blood is not expected simply because vomiting occurred.

Stop eating temporarily if vomiting is continuing, then take small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink if you can keep fluids down. Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory painkillers unless a clinician has advised them. Keep a sample or photograph of unusual vomit if safe, and note the colour, amount, abdominal pain, dizziness, and medicines you use. Arrange medical advice even if the bleeding stops when its cause is unclear.

Get emergency help for blood that is heavy, clotted, or coffee-ground-like; black stools; severe abdominal pain; a swollen abdomen; faintness, confusion, cold clammy skin, or trouble breathing. Urgent assessment is also needed if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little urine, or the bleeding returns. A child, older adult, or person taking blood-thinning medicine may need earlier review.

Ask whether the blood is more consistent with throat irritation or bleeding higher in the digestive tract, whether dehydration needs treatment, and which medicines should be avoided. Mention recent illness, abdominal pain, alcohol use, and any previous episodes.